Anthem Changes to Missouri ACA Individual Health Plans in 2018

September 01, 2017

A Message from Amadou YattassayePresident of Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in Missouri

Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield has served consumers in the Individual market for decades, and we’ve been proud to offer affordable health plans that give Missourians access to quality health care. In 2014, when the Affordable Care Act (ACA) started, we created a new set of quality, affordable health plans to offer consumers through the Health Insurance Marketplace, also called the exchange. We’ve offered plans on the marketplace since it began, and we’re the only remaining insurer in Missouri to continuously offer plans there today.

But the market for these plans has become unstable. And with federal rules and guidance changing, it’s no longer possible for us to offer all of these plans.

Starting in 2018, we will reduce our ACA plans on the Missouri Health Insurance Marketplace

This is not an easy decision for us. We know that changes like these can have a real impact on the people we serve. Nothing will change for this year. Beginning January 1, 2018, we’ll offer Individual health plans on and off of the marketplace in 68 counties that would otherwise not have health insurance coverage for their residents. This doesn’t impact people who have a grandfathered or grandmothered Individual plan, employer-sponsored insurance or Medicare.

We’re committed to helping you find health plan options for 2018 and beyond, and we’ll continue to work hard to find new ways to keep health care benefits affordable. As we get closer to open enrollment, we’ll update this page with new information, so you may want to bookmark it to return here easily. In the meantime, if you have questions, please take a look at the frequently asked questions (FAQ) and links to other resources below.

Q: I have an Anthem individual ACA health plan - when do I have to find new coverage?

A: Nothing is changing with your Anthem ACA health plan in 2017. Later this year, you’ll have to shop for a new plan for 2018. You’ll do this during the open enrollment period starting November 1. Affected members will receive an official notice from us that their plan is ending, along with information on options for next year. We’ll help you connect with the right people to find a new plan.

Q: I didn’t switch to an ACA plan, my individual health plan is grandfathered/grandmothered. Does this affect me?

A: No, this change affects Anthem’s ACA individual health plans only.

Q: Is Anthem also discontinuing individual dental, vision or life plans in Missouri?